How to choose the ideal harness for your dog?
Updated 14 October 2026
In short: the right harness depends on three things: your dog's build (small, short-nosed, deep-chested, large), how it behaves on the lead (pulls or not) and what it's for (walks, sport, car, support). For walks, a well-fitted Y harness suits almost every breed; add an anti-pull chest ring if your dog pulls. Size is chosen by chest girth, never by breed alone.
Quiz: which harness for my dog?
The right harness by breed and build
| Profile | Example breeds | What to watch | Usual Comfort size* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toy dog | Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian | Fragile windpipe, light harness | XS |
| Small dog | Jack Russell, Cavalier King Charles, Bichon | Y harness, neck strap well fitted | S |
| Short-nosed | French Bulldog, Pug, Boxer | Never any throat pressure; broad chest | Pug S to M, French Bulldog M, Boxer L |
| Long body | Dachshund, Basset | Don't load the back, avoid jumping | S to M |
| Medium, active | Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, Border Collie | Free shoulders for running | M to L |
| Sighthound | Whippet, Greyhound, Galgo | Narrow head, deep chest: escape risk | By chest girth |
| Large dog | Labrador, Golden Retriever, Malinois | Wide straps, handle | L |
| Giant / very large | German Shepherd, Beauceron, Bernese Mountain Dog | Strong buckles and stitching | XL (above 45 kg, check chest girth) |
To find the exact size, use our size calculator or follow our method to measure your dog.
The right harness for the job
Y harness. It keeps the throat and shoulders free and suits puppies to seniors. With a chest ring, it becomes an anti-pull harness for dogs that pull.
Anti-pull harness. With the lead on the chest ring, the dog turns towards you when it pulls. A training tool, best combined with the Stop and Go method.
Pulling harness (X-back). For canicross, bikejoring or skijoring: its straps run to the hips to spread the effort. It encourages pulling, so keep it for sport. See dog sports.
Support harness. With handles, it helps older, arthritic or recovering dogs stand up, get into the car or climb stairs. Ask your vet for advice after surgery.
Car safety harness. Attached to the seat belt or anchor points. Only crash-tested models really protect; a walking harness is not enough.
Materials and details: what makes a good harness
| Material | Strengths | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Polyester, nylon | Light, tough, dries quickly | Most common for straps |
| Oxford fabric | Dense, strong fabric that takes prints well | Lined with breathable mesh, it stays comfortable |
| Neoprene, foam, mesh | Soft, reduces rubbing | Used as lining or padding |
| Leather | Durable, smart | Heavy, dislikes water, needs care |
| Soft PVC, Biothane | Waterproof, doesn't hold smells | Stiffer; ideal for dogs that swim |
Also check the stitching (doubled at stress points), buckles (sturdy clips), lead ring (welded metal or alloy), chest padding and reflective strips for evenings. Our Comfort Y harnesses are made of Oxford fabric lined with mesh, with polyester straps, an alloy D-ring on the back, a chest ring, a handle and reflective trim. Like any fabric harness, they wear faster if the dog pulls very hard.
Fit comes first
Even the best harness becomes uncomfortable if it's badly fitted. Two flat fingers should slide under each strap, the Y junction should sit in the centre of the chest and no strap should rub in the armpits. It's all in our guide to adjusting the harness.
Before you buy: watch your dog walk and trot in the harness. Its shoulders should move freely, and it shouldn't try to scratch or rub against things.
Frequently asked questions
Which harness for a small dog?
A light Y harness adjustable at the neck and chest. Small dogs have a fragile windpipe, and a harness avoids any throat pressure.
Which harness for a French Bulldog or Pug?
A Y harness whose front strap stays well below the throat, chosen by chest girth. Avoid a collar for walks.
Which harness for a sighthound?
A harness with a well-fitted neck strap so it can't back out. Its narrow head slips easily out of a standard collar.
Which harness for a large dog that pulls?
A padded Y-shaped anti-pull harness with a chest ring and a handle. Combine it with loose-lead training.
Is breed enough to choose the size?
No. Chest girth varies a lot within the same breed. Breed gives an idea; the measurement decides.